For those involved in the MHDLax program as an official, parent, coach, or player, a code of conduct will be outlined and observed. MHDLax will encourage good sportsmanship and fair play. Each MHDLax coach or site supervisor will be totally responsible for the conduct of himself, his players and his respective spectators. Absolutely no abusive or vulgar language will be tolerated and could result in team penalties. Un-sportsmanlike conduct or disrespect for the referees will not be tolerated as well. Both players and coaches will refrain at all times, from abusive and unwarranted disruptions.

CODE OF RESPECT

It is essential that players show respect to their coaches and that league officials show decency and consideration for their players.

PARENT CONDUCT

It is imperative that parents, at all times, conduct themselves in a proper manner. No swearing or harassment will be permitted. In the event conduct is not acceptable, the Board of Directors may take disciplinary action, which may include suspension from the program. No coach or spectator shall at any time use signs, gestures, degrading personal comments, or any act, which will reflect unfavorably upon opposing coaches, players or spectators.

MHDLax encourages and requires good sportsmanship and respect for all of the participants. MHDLax will enforce this policy to the maximum.

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP / CODES OF CONDUCT

Coach’s code:

Be reasonable in your demands on the young players’ time, energy, enthusiasm and their performance on the field.

Impress on your players that they must abide by the rules of the game at all times.

Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, and for the judgment of referees and opposing coaches.

Ensure that your players’ experience is one fun and enjoyment (winning is only part of it). Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game.

Set a good example and be generous with your praise when it is deserved. Children need a coach that they can respect.

Keep informed about sound principles of coaching, growth and development principles relating to children.

Enlist the support of your team’s parents in your efforts to develop the proper attitudes and values in the players.

Parent's Code:

Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

Remember that children are involved in organized sport for their enjoyment, not yours.

Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.

Help you child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Your child will then be a winner, even in defeat.

Do not ridicule your child for making a mistake or losing a game.

Set a good example. Children learn best by good examples.

Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.

Do not publicly question referee judgment.

Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches, referees, and officials and give them their due respect. Without them, there would not be the IYL.

Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sporting activities.

Player’s Code:

Play for the fun of it, not just to please your parents or coach.

Play by the rules.

Never argue with or complain about the referee calls or decisions.

Control your temper and most of all, resist the temptation to retaliate when you feel you have been wronged.

Concentrate on playing lacrosse and on affecting the outcome of the game with your best effort.

Be a good sport by cheering all good plays, whether it is your teams or your opponents.

Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve skills and feel good. Don’t be a “showoff”.